Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a snap election, setting the date for 28 April—just a week after taking office.
On Sunday (23 March), Prime Minister Carney formally requested the governor general to dissolve the House of Commons and call for a fresh election, a request that was duly granted, reports the BBC.
The decision comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions with the United States, particularly following Donald Trump’s re-election as president.
Trump has repeatedly taken a confrontational stance towards Canada, at times referring to it as the 51st state of the US and mockingly calling former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau "Governor Trudeau."
Amidst mounting pressure and dwindling popularity, Trudeau announced his resignation.
However, Trump’s provocative remarks have continued, with threats to annexe Canada as a US state and the imposition of a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods.
In light of this, Carney was questioned on whether calling an early election during an ongoing trade dispute with the US was a risky move. The newly sworn-in prime minister defended his decision, stating that within the first nine days of his tenure, his government had taken measures to safeguard the Canadian economy. He asserted that the country was in a stable position and that the achievements made thus far justified the decision for fresh elections.
Carney was also asked about the possibility of discussions with President Trump. In response, he stated that he was open to dialogue, but only if Trump first acknowledged that “Canada is an independent nation.”
It is noteworthy that although Carney took office nine days ago, he has yet to hold any formal discussions with Trump.
